The Federal Government has introduced a new transportation code aimed at reducing boat-related accidents on Nigerian inland waterways.
During a one-day working visit to the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) in Lokoja, Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, announced that the new regulatory framework aims to standardize water transportation, minimize accidents, and create a structured environment for investors.
Oyetola praised NIWA’s management for their efforts in developing the vital code and also inaugurated several projects to enhance operational capabilities and safety standards on Nigeria’s inland waterways.
He emphasized the maritime sector’s crucial role in improving Nigeria’s balance of trade, strengthening the naira, and creating employment. “The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is determined to maximize the comparative advantages of our maritime resources in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he stated.
Among the newly inaugurated projects are 15 boats of various capacities and purposes designed to enhance surveillance, safety enforcement, and emergency response on Nigeria’s waterways. The fleet includes three surveillance boats, five safety enforcement boats, a gun patrol boat, a 62-seater passenger boat as a pilot scheme to replace traditional wooden canoes, three water ambulances, and two hydrographic survey boats equipped with multi-beam echo sounders.
“These initiatives fulfill our commitment to ensuring our inland waterways are well-used for cargo shipment and passenger transportation,” Oyetola said. He also pledged to address internal and external challenges hindering NIWA’s operations, ensuring continuous improvement and expansion of navigable waterways.
Oyetola revealed plans to increase navigable waterways by at least 2,000 kilometers through comprehensive dredging and highlighted ongoing efforts to finalize the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) to support the maritime sector’s development.
“We will continue to create an enabling environment, develop supportive policies, and offer necessary assistance to grow the inland waterways segment,” he assured.
Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, represented by Deputy Governor Salifu Joel, commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing a capable leader to NIWA.
NIWA Managing Director Bola Oyebamiji expressed gratitude for the Minister’s support and guidance in driving organizational reforms and enhancing operational efficiency. He outlined proactive measures taken by the agency, including implementing education grants, promotion letters, and medical packages for staff to boost morale and productivity.
The unveiling of the transportation code underscores NIWA’s commitment to ensuring the safety and efficiency of inland water transportation. Permanent Secretary Oloruntola Olufemi also commended NIWA’s achievements and assured the agency of the ministry’s continued support in actualizing its mandate.
